PROFESSIONAL FURNITURE REFINISHING FOR THE AMATEUR

Perhaps Savage's biggest service here is her list of what not to do to old furniture; among the common refinisher's sins are using a sander, plane or scraper, replacing or removing parts, painting or ""antiquing"" a redeemable piece, and even indiscriminate stripping. Restoring an old finish, when at all possible, is advised over refinishing and Savage gives detailed directions for both processes. Every step from stripping and staining to ""dressing"" (with paste wax) and maintaining is carefully outlined, and there are tips too on acquiring items from attics, shops and auctions. Savage, who began as an amateur and drifted into business, breaks with custom in specifying brand names--a practice that has its hazards but which novices will find handy.